Rope ‘n’ Ride: Texan Ranch Stays

“Everything in the US’s biggest state seems super-sized, but nothing looms larger than the legend of the cowboy. These tough, outdoorsy guys were the foundation of the vast cattle ranches that once covered modern Texas. And they’re still a huge part of the state’s culture – not least because enterprising Texans have turned ranches into hotels and visitor centres, allowing tourists to get a hands-on taste of what made the Lone Star State what it is today. Sound good? Saddle up at one of these five brilliant ranch hotels…

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Wildcatter Ranch & Resort, Graham, Texas
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In the beautiful North Texas Hill Country, just minutes from Dallas and Fort Worth, Wildcatter Ranch and Resort offers modern luxury amenities with a touch of old-school western charm. There are 25 miles of trails to explore by horseback in a group, and other activities include clay shooting, historical Jeep tours, archery and hiking. Unlike the cowboys of yesteryear, you can end your day with a therapeutic massage, or soak in the infinity-edged pool and hot tub.

If you want to see more hotels in Graham, visit our Graham hotels page.

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Mill Creek Ranch Resort, Canton, Texas
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Tennessee might have the most famous country music towns, but Texas has a vibrant live music scene of its own. The Creek at Mill Creek Ranch Resort draws in resort residents and locals for its fantastic live music show every Friday night, with cocktails and specialty east Texas comfort food. Check out historic Canton’s Rodeo Arena and Van Zandt County Fairgrounds, and try to time your stay to visit the famous First Monday Trade Days, a mind-blowingly enormous flea market that takes place once a month.

If you want to see more hotels in Canton, Texas, visit our Canton hotels page.

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The Reserve at Lake Travis, Austin, Texas
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The Texan capital’s live music scene is legendary. It encompasses country, blues, jazz, rock and more, and it happens everywhere from underground dive bars to street corners to the city airport (there’s a stage in the departure lounge). Austin – which is rightly famous for its food scene too – is the place to look if you want a cosmopolitan take on the traditional country ranch. The Reserve at Lake Travis is surrounded by rolling hills and pristine shoreline, and offers luxury cabins, state-of-the-art facilities, and a full programme of activities and entertainment.

If you want to see more hotels in Austin, visit our Austin hotels page.

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Flying L Hill Country Resort, Bandera, Texas
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Here’s a place that’ll help you appreciate the size of the USA’s biggest state. Flying L Hill Country Resort, located just outside San Antonio, is a former airfield that has been converted into a 542-acre dude ranch. You can explore its 100-acre grounds on horseback, passing through forests, fields and creeks, and spotting deer, road runners, armadillos and hawks. There’s a large family-friendly water park, and in the evening Texas-style ranch events provide some Lone Star-style entertainment.

If you want to see more hotels in Bandera, visit our Bandera hotels page.

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Beaumont Ranch, Cleburne, Texas
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Working cattle ranch Beaumont Ranch offers an authentic stay in Grandview, Texas. Family owned and operated, it’s home to a herd of Texas longhorns, plus horses and llamas. It’s the place to learn to drive cattle, rope and ride with real working cowboys. There’s no shortage of other activities, from zip lining and all-terrain vehicle riding to shooting and archery. And when it comes to accommodation, the owners have delivered the best of both worlds – they’ve preserved the rustic exterior of the property’s main buildings, while renovating them to deliver modern luxury inside.

If you want to see more hotels in Cleburne, visit our Cleburne hotels page.”